Report: Red Sox want to shorten Napoli's deal

January 11, 2013|Reuters

The Sports Xchange

Report: Red Sox want to shorten Napoli's deal

Mike Napoli agreed to a three-year, $39 million contract with the Boston Red Sox back on Dec. 3, but Napoli and the team are currently discussing the possibility of shortening the length of the deal to one year because of concerns about Napoli's hip, ESPN.com reported.

If the two sides agree to the amended contract, Napoli would get only one guaranteed year, according to the report, although there may be provisions made if Napoli reaches a certain number of plate appearances or does not go on the disabled list.

Red Sox general manager Ben Cherington told the Boston Herald he was optimistic an agreement with Napoli could be reached soon, although he offered no specifics.

Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports reported earlier Friday that the Red Sox have made inquiries regarding the Washington Nationals' Michael Morse if an agreement with Napoli cannot be reached.